talk about REUSE...
take your child to a garage sale, salvation army, antique store, goodwill, flea market, whatever. tell them you are on a treasure hunt. you can set out looking for something specific or find whatever catches your eye and make up a story around it: who used to own this? what happened? how did it find it's way to where we found it? it sounds really corny, but trust me on this one, people, it is a TREASURE of an activity. and word to the wise, say "treasure hunt" as much as humanly possible for the effective buildup!
this was a huge hit at my house and the crappy "gold" pocket watch we found for $10 has become a cherished item. plus, there is the new found urgency to learn to tell time.
the lesson: one man's trash is another kid's treasure.
***added bonus: the plastic play sets from target, made in china, with their twist twist twist ties, that your kids are interested in for 2 days, who needs 'em?
here's a link to finding locations to the salvation army near you
